Book Review: Morrie: In His Own Words: Life Wisdom From a Remarkable Man

Amazon.com Review: Preceding the phenomenal success of Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie, in which Albom discusses his weekly visits with his mentor, Morrie, as Morrie faces death from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Morrie Schwartz published his own book, Letting Go: Morrie's Reflections of Living While Dying. Schwartz intended his words to be read by people dying of terminal illnesses with passages titled ,"Living with Physical Limitations," "Grieving for Your Losses," and "Reviewing the Past." Yet, just as in the case in Tuesdays with Morrie, this collection of plainspoken reflections transcends the "death and dying" category and is more aptly shelved in one's inspiration and spirituality collection. For example, Schwartz's simple thoughts on courage could speak to any seeker of enlightenment. nn"Dealing bravely with physical pain or accidents takes one kind of courage," he writes. "Facing life as it is and accepting it requires another....I have found courage through seeking thoughtfulness, openheartedness, detachment, and other responses that make up a composed life and a calm response to illness....I hope that I can continue in this way to the end so that I die with inner peace. nnAs it was, on November 4, 1995, Morrie Schwartz died just as he hoped he would. In 1999, Walker & Company decided to reissue Letting Go under a new title, Morrie: in His Own Words --Gail Hudson --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title. nnProduct Information: For everyone who enjoyed the inspiration and wisdom of Morrie Schwartz in Mitch Albom’s moving bestseller Tuesdays with Morrie, here is a new paperback edition of Morrie’s own book, presenting the philosophies by which he triumphantly lived, even as he faced the end of his life. For decades Morrie Schwartz engaged his Brandeis University students in the importance of community and involvement in life. Ever the teacher, in his last year, as his battle with the fatal illness amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease, gradually weakened him, he appeared on three memorable Nightline programs with Ted Koppel, simply titled “Morrie,” captivating millions of viewers across the country with his spirit and compassion. Before he died, Morrie finished the manuscript for this book, which he saw as his greatest teaching opportunity. Whether you or a loved one is healthy or ill, young or old, there is invaluable wisdom here that can enrich your life. From “handling frustration” and “reaching acceptance” to “relating to others” and “being kind to yourself,” Morrie’s life-affirming insights help you take stock of where you are now and where you may want to be.nnMorrie: In His Own Words will have a lasting impact on whoever reads it. It is Morrie’s invaluable legacy to us all. “In this book, Morrie teaches one last great class, on acceptance, on wresting victory from the jaws of defeat, on the honor of dependency, on moral courage, growth, and joy. It is impossible to read this book and not learn some important things about being alive. Even the most lackluster pupil will benefit from Morrie’s intelligence, candor, and thoughtfulness.”—Mary Pipher, Ph.D., author of Reviving Ophelia To view this book on Amazon.com, click here.